Arthur's Quay Park hotels in Limerick, Ireland

For a historic and atmospheric stay in Limerick head to one of the many hotels situated on the quayside by the River Shannon. They are romantic, have great views and you can walk along the riverside into the city to explore the main attractions and shops. You will still be in the thick of city life, but they have a more relaxed feel because of the open space and waterside views. You may be able to see various attractions such as the Treaty Stone, St Margaret’s Castle and King John’s Castle if you’re lucky enough to have a room with a view.

Green Spaces in Limerick city

Arthur’s Quay Park is a centrally located, small park with great views of the river and King John’s Castle, which is close to the main tourist office and has a shopping centre on site. It’s a refreshing spot for a rest post-shopping, a lunch break or for family play - a green space in the heart of the city, which is well loved and well used. You’ll find it opposite the quayside walk and Arthur’s Quay Shopping Centre, which is a great spot to park for city centre shopping. At various times of the year a spiegeltent pitches up in the area and there is also an ice rink at Christmas. It’s a great little spot to take a break and get away from hustle and bustle of city life.

History of Arthur’s Quay

Before 1840 Limerick was governed by merchant families who tried to take control of various areas of the city - the Arthurs, Creaghs and Whites. The Arthur family took the lead for commercial enterprise so the city had various Arthur mayors and they were instrumental in setting up trade around quayside. The Arthur family also named various streets in area after themselves - Frances Street, Ellen Street and Patrick Street - and built houses on the quayside, which became an exclusive enclave for parties and fun. Arthur’s Quay itself was built to house the ships used for trading before other quays started to trade. Having a sense of the commercial background to the area makes it more interesting when you visit the park.

Shopping in Limerick city

Next to Arthur’s Quay Park on Patrick Street you’ll find a multi-storey shopping centre with lots of major brands and parking facilities for 570 vehicles. It’s a good spot to leave your car while you head off to explore the city on foot. Other retail outlets in the area include Quay Books, Penney’s, Debenhams and Brown Thomas and close by are various other cultural attractions such as the Hunt Museum, Limerick City Gallery of Art, and King John’s Castle. Arthur’s Quay Park is next door to Limerick city Tourist Office, so a great spot for digesting information after your visit. They can provide walking maps and information about good places to visit, shop and eat during your stay.

Arthur’s Quay is centrally located by the riverside and in a very scenic spot, yet a short walk from the main shopping streets and attractions in Limerick city. Around the quayside areas you’ll find a good selection of hotels to suit all budgets and needs - from Wi-Fi/business hotels to family-friendly leisure hotels and boutique independents ranging from two star to five star status. Those closest to the quayside and Shannon will have the best views of the city and historic attractions, making them an ideal choice for a romantic mini-break.